Egypt reviews GERD developments and Nile flow conditions
via Egypt Today5 min read
The Permanent Committee for Regulating the Nile River's Flow, chaired by Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sweilem, convened to assess the Nile's flow and Egypt's water situation during peak demand. The committee reviewed developments concerning the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam GERD, labeling its operation as illegal and a violation of international law due to the absence of a binding agreement for its filling and operation. They discussed fluctuations in downstream discharge caused by the dam's unilateral operation and emphasized the need for downstream dam operators to update scenarios for efficient water management. The committee also analyzed rainfall across the Nile Basin and water inflows from the Blue Nile, White Nile, and Atbara River, noting above-average flow in June but below-average in July. They anticipate a clearer flood season assessment after early August and are monitoring climate patterns like El Niño and La Niña. Minister Sweilem directed continuous monitoring of hydrological and climate indicators and regular updates to forecasts to ensure optimal water resource management. He affirmed the Aswan High Dam's crucial role in Egypt's water security due to its storage capacity and operational flexibility.
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